Juice Products New Zealand (JPNZ) reached a milestone in mid-February, processing its one-millionth tonne (one billion kilograms) of carrots at its Washdyke, Timaru facility since operations began.
The achievement places the South Canterbury-based processor among an elite group of global vegetable processors and highlights Timaru’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence for high-value food processing and export.
Chief executive Chris Renfree says the milestone is a tribute to the long-term partnerships that underpin the business.
“Processing one million metric tonnes of carrots is a phenomenal achievement, but it didn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of decades of commitment from our growers, our people, and our customers, working together to build something truly world-class here in Timaru,” says Renfree.
“From local paddocks to global markets, every carrot represents the skill of South Canterbury farmers and the dedication of our team in Washdyke. We’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved, and even more excited about what comes next.”
JPNZ sources carrots from specialist South Canterbury growers and processes them into high-quality juice concentrates for export to markets including Japan, Asia, North America and beyond, supporting around 100 direct jobs during peak season and many more across farming, transport and logistics.
Timaru Mayor Nigel Bowen says the milestone was a major win for the district.
“JPNZ is one of Timaru’s quiet powerhouses. Processing one million metric tonnes of carrots is not just a company success – it’s a statement about the strength of our region’s food and fibre sector,” says Bowen.
“This business shows what is possible when local growers, global markets and advanced processing come together. JPNZ has created high-value jobs, backed our farming community and helped put Timaru on the international food map.”
Venture Timaru chief executive Nigel Davenport says the achievement reflected exactly the kind of economic development the district strives for.
“JPNZ is a textbook example of what strong regional economic development looks like –taking locally grown produce and turning it into premium export products that generate jobs, investment and global connections,” says Davenport.
“One million metric tonnes of carrots processed here in Timaru is an extraordinary story. It speaks to the scale, sophistication and resilience of our local food-processing sector and the huge value it delivers to our wider economy. Also, to put things in perspective this amount of carrots would fill approx. 800 Olympic sized swimming pools or the Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin nearly twice over”.
Since establishing its modern Washdyke facility, JPNZ has become one of New Zealand’s largest vegetable juice processors, operating around the clock during peak season and supporting long-term grower investment across South Canterbury.
Renfree says the company is proud to be part of Timaru’s future.
“We’re deeply rooted in this region. Our success is tied to the land, the growers and the community around us. Reaching one billion kilograms is a moment to celebrate and a reminder that Timaru is capable of competing on the world stage.”
